Interested in learning more about cosmetic or aesthetic surgery? It is important to locate an experienced surgeon for aesthetic cosmetic surgery. Finding a member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) or American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) ensures the doctor attended an accredited school and completed five years of residency, along with advanced plastic surgery training. Your plastic surgeon should have access to an accredited hospital, offer to verify his or her credentials and to possess before and after photographs of their procedures. It is wise to seek several opinions, and, of course, to feel very comfortable with the doctor of your choice. Liposuction The removal of fat cells from underneath the skin, usually using a small tube called a cannula, is called liposuction. This procedure can help reduce the appearance of fat from most parts of the body. Healthy, slightly overweight individuals seeking spot treatment or enhancement of a body region are good candidates for this procedure. Tummy Tuck Sometimes diet and exercise cannot improve the appearance of the abdomen. In such cases a major surgical procedure called a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can be performed. Through an incision in the pubic region, surgeons remove excess fat and skin, and tighten internal ligaments to help flatten the abdomen. Breast Augmentation Saline or silicone breast implants are an option for patients who would like to increase breast size, to balance uneven breasts or to replace breast tissue removed in a mastectomy. A small incision is made, either near the breast or through the belly button, and a round or teardrop-shaped implant in the patient�s desired size is placed behind the breast tissue. Breast Reduction Breast reduction surgery can help women with large, heavy breasts improve their appearance as well as easing back and shoulder pain. Incisions are made under the breast and near the areola, and excess tissue and skin are removed. The nipple may be raised to a higher point on the chest to be in proportion with the smaller breast size. Face Lift A person with the loose skin, wrinkles, creases and jowls of aging can improve their facial appearance with a facelift. In most cases incisions are made near the sides of the face, where the skin and muscles are tightened and fat is removed, leaving any scars nearly invisible in the hairline or behind the ears. MACS Lift A minimal access cranial suspension facelift, or MACS, is a procedure available for persons interested in tightening and smoothing their aging facial features. Surgeons will make small incisions in front of the ear and in the hairline, through which they will tighten the cheeks and naso-labial folds. Compared to a standard facelift, the MACS lift may be less expensive and leave fewer scars. Body Lift In order to remove excess or sagging skin around the midsection, hips and upper buttocks region, a complex surgery called a body lift may be necessary. An incision is made around the lower abdomen and around to the top of the buttocks, through which the surgeon will tighten and contour the hips, rear end and abdomen. This incision can later be hidden under undergarments. Financing Cosmetic Surgery Many cosmetic surgery offices offer financing; it is best to choose the right doctor for you, however, rather than finding one based on your financial need. Lending companies offer loans for cosmetic procedures, and as with any loan, it is recommended that you read the fine print and determine how much you can really afford. Some patients choose to pay for half of their procedure in cash and pay the rest through a credit card. Insurance companies will usually pay for reconstructive surgery for patients recovering from mastectomies and other cancer surgery or accidents. Is Cosmetic Surgery Covered by Insurance? Because each insurance company is different, and may have varied types of coverage plans, it is best to fully understand your own insurance coverage in regard to cosmetic surgery. Most breast reduction surgeries have health benefits and may be covered. Cosmetic surgery of congenital abnormalities are often paid for, along with facial defects that may detract from your health or safety, such as nasal surgery to correct breathing problems or a procedure to regain symmetry to the face after a stroke. Surgical treatment of the hands involving degenerative issues such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or tendon injuries may be insured. After a tumor or cyst is removed, insurance providers often cover cosmetic surgical treatment to improve the appearance of the affected region, including breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
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